Today will take us to Tucumcari, New Mexico, where we will stay at The Blue Swallow Motel this evening. I’ll update with photos later this afternoon!
The changing landscapes from state to state, and even within states has kept us amazed and dazzled, oohing and aahing as we make our way across the midwest. From the corn fields of Illinois to the rolling hills and forested byways of Missouri, into the flat, open rural countryside of Oklahoma and the dry, rocky flat ranchlands of Texas, I finally understand more fully what Steinbeck meant when he wrote, “We do not take a trip; a trip takes us” in Travels with Charley.
I have been taken.
Seeing states from the road is far different from flying in and out of airports, staying in large cities, and thinking we’ve been to a place. I’ve been to a hotel, a few restaurants, and taken the city tours in plenty of places, but this road trip has given me added perspective on travel. I said to my husband as we drove along, “I think I’ve developed more of an interest in traveling to American destinations than ever before; I used to want to visit all over Europe, but now my list of American cities I’d like to visit is growing longer than the European ones.”
The best coconut pie I’ve ever put in my mouth happened today. I knew the Midpoint Cafe was famous for its pies, baked by Brenda, but I had no idea how delicious this dessert would be. When it was delivered, I offered my husband part of it, adding I’ll never be able to eat all this.
One bite later, I retracted my offer: Oh, yes I will!
Don’t miss the pie stop if you travel the route. It’s worth every calorie and then some!
We made our way into Tucumcari and found that most businesses and museums were closed. We were somewhat discouraged, until the Blue Swallow check-in began and we saw our rooms. We fell in love with the place immediately. They have the old-timey metal rockers sitting outdoors, and it feels like you stepped into the last century, sitting out and visiting with complete strangers who turn out to be your neighbors. There’s a community refrigerator, a laundry room, and a kitchenette with a table to use. The owners keep a fresh pot of coffee when the neon sign is lit.
What a fabulous way to end a day in Tucumcari, New Mexico in Room 4.
ChroNICle #2 for Nick: Stay at the Blue Swallow Motel, but skip the Tee Pee Curios souvenir shop. They don’t offer customers a public restroom. They sent me to Tractor Supply to use the potty, so once I took care of my personal business, I decided to buy myself a Schleich Texas Longhorn Bull and a Highland Bull and post a review of what I thought of their customer service on Trip Advisor.
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